By Sonia Isaacs
BOXING fans are set for a packed evening of action when Mooloolah Valley Boxing Club stages a 15-bout Fight Night at Mooloolah State School on Saturday, May 2, bringing together rising talent from across Queensland and beyond.
Organised by the Mooloolah Valley Boxing Club, the event will feature around 15 fights, including three state title bouts, promising an intense program for both die-hard boxing followers and first-time spectators.
A major drawcard on the night will be local favourite Jarod Keeble, who will be defending his state title.
Jarod, who has already claimed the state crown this year, will step into the ring against Grant Martin from Innisfail, in a highly anticipated showdown that could be one of the stand-out contests of the evening.
Head coach and event organiser Robbie Keeble said his fighters had been putting in enormous effort to be at their best for the home crowd.
“We’ve trained our boys pretty good – they put the effort in,” he said. “From past performances, we’ve got a pretty good name for good fighters.”
Alongside Jarod, another local, Elijah Tonnissa, is aiming to secure a bout on the card, adding to the strong Mooloolah presence and giving local supporters even more reason to turn out and cheer from the sidelines.
Keeble said clubs and boxers were expected to travel from Innisfail, Evans Head, Caboolture and Warwick, highlighting both the depth of talent involved and the growing reputation of the Mooloolah event within the boxing community.
A full-sized ring will be brought in and assembled on-site by one of the visiting clubs, transforming the school venue into a professional-style fight arena for the night.
The Fight Night has been timed to coincide with the long weekend, giving families and sports fans a chance to enjoy a major local event without having to travel far.
Keeble said the evening offered an affordable, entertaining night out and a chance to support home-grown athletes.
He encouraged residents to make the most of the long weekend without “spending a [lot] on fuel” by staying local and coming along to the fights.
With fighters training six days a week in the lead-up, Keeble said spectators could expect committed performances, strong conditioning and plenty of heart in every bout.
Doors open at 5pm with the first bell to ring shortly after. 79 King Road Mooloolah.